General information about the National Monument
The National Monument protects part of the Zuni-Bandera volcanic field. The name El Malpais (bad land) becomes clear when you consider that practically the whole park consists of a huge lava flow.
Number of visitors
Best time to visit: Spring and fall.
Our visits:
So far 1 visit: September 2011
Entrance fees and opening hours
- Free of charge
- Covered by the Anual Pass*
- Open 24h all year round.
*The Anual Pass is so to speak the "flat rate" for all Parks managed by the National Park Service. The pass costs a one-time fee of $80 and can be purchased at the entrance to each National Park, National Monument, etc. The pass is valid for 13 months.
El Malpais NM
Description: El Malpais NM protects part of the Zuni-Bandera volcanic field. The name El Malpais (bad land) becomes clear when you consider that practically the whole park consists of a huge lava flow. The NM also has some lava caves that can be hiked and climbed. For this you need a permit, which you have to pick up at the Visitor Center. Everything about the hikes in the park can be found here. There are also a couple of trails, one of which crosses the lava field. There are no roads through the lava field. The park roads pass by the field with some viewpoints.
Another highlight in the park is the La Ventana Natural Arch. It is a huge stone arch with a span of 135ft. It is the second largest in New Mexico.
Our rating: It was quite interesting to take a visit this place. We always find it very impressive to look at such forces of nature. We liked to look over the huge lava field and we can definitely recommend a visit here.
